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New York Knicks: 3 takeaways from open practice 2017

By Ed Easton Jr.

NEW YORK CITY - OCTOBER 16: Jeff Hornacek of the New York Knicks during the Knicks Open Practice at Madison Square Garden on October 16, 2016 in New York, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
NEW YORK CITY - OCTOBER 16: Jeff Hornacek of the New York Knicks during the Knicks Open Practice at Madison Square Garden on October 16, 2016 in New York, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Nathaniel S Butler/NBAE via Getty Images
Photo by Nathaniel S Butler/NBAE via Getty Images /

3. Joakim Noah revitalized for new season

It’s no secret to anyone that Joakim Noah had a horrible year last season as he battled with various injuries, poor play and a substance abuse suspension that will sideline him for the first 10 games of the season. Noah is on a mission to rebound and redeem himself to Knicks fans who have all but given up hope on the veteran.

Noah was surprisingly very active throughout the scrimmage, crashing the boards and helping to lead the defensive charge for the blue side. The most impressive part of the practice was his ability to get to the free throw line and be considered a threat down in the post for defenders. The free throws may not have all went in, but it’s the effort Knicks fans are really focused on from the former Defensive Player of the Year.

Hornacek spoke highly of Noah’s performance so far in training camp before the open practice.

"“Coming off those injuries, literally, I’m shocked of how well he’s played just because I didn’t think he was gonna be ready this early. I’m extremely happy with how he’s playing. He’s playing the right way. He sets great screens, he rolls hard, which opens up other things for guys if he doesn’t get it. He’s been finishing with driving layups. He’s been playing great.”"

Noah will need to raise his game in order to fight for minutes among Willy Hernangomez and recently acquired Enes Kanter at the center position. The competition should be all the motivation needed to get him back on track.

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